Porphyrin derivatives as potent and selective blockers of neuronal Kv1 channels

Abstract

Selective inhibitors of voltage-activated K⁺ channels are needed for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. In this work it was discovered that porphyrins bearing 2–4 carbon alkyl ammonium side chains predominantly blocked the Kv1.1 current whilst Kv1.2 was susceptible to a porphyrin bearing polyamine side chains.